I've always loved the piano. Not because of the historical legacy it carries, but because it's such a versatile instrument, and it's just so much fun. You can do so much with a piano, open it up to almost anything..it's really remarkable.

So we have a favortie Guitarists thread, I guess it's not that bad to have a favorite pianists thread. Keep in mind this applies to those of the Acoustic variety and of electronic persuasion.

Cecil Taylor is probably my favorite. Some people say he's just banging around, just banging, but it's clear he knows his harmony very well. On his album 'Conquistador!' I hear loads of melodies completley improvised pouring out of him. And how he shapes his band members too! Really amazing guy.

Cecil Taylor is more like someone I respect as an innovator. He's certainly not just 'banging on the keys' but on the other hand it's also certainly not the kind of stuff I grab often to listen to 'for fun'.

_________________"When you hear music, after it's over, it's gone in the air. You can never capture it again." -- Eric Dolphy

MGG, ditto on Keith Jarrett - his improv solo recordings on ECM are just beautiful, especially "The Koln Concert." I like "Staircase" a lot too.

As for Aybe Sea's comment on prog organists, I gotta add Dave Sinclair (Caravan, Matching Mole) to that list. He plays simple stuff, but he always seems to hit the right notes at the right time and really has a knack for building emotional tension (see "Nine Feet Underground" for details).

In a more Brit-pop vein, I really admire Mike Barson's (of Madness) piano playing. His arrangements really add color to the music and his rhythmic sense and energy are impressive.

_________________Let's hear it again for the London Philharmonic Orchestra!

Who is online

Users browsing this forum: No registered users and 2 guests

You cannot post new topics in this forumYou cannot reply to topics in this forumYou cannot edit your posts in this forumYou cannot delete your posts in this forumYou cannot post attachments in this forum